How to Get a Dog to Sleep Later

Dogs can develop sleeping schedules.

When you bring a new puppy home, he may exhibit signs of separation anxiety and sleep fitfully through the night, whining and barking to rouse you. Even older dogs can suffer from poor sleep habits.

Things You'll Need

• Dog Crate
• Stuffed Animals
• Soft Pad or Old Blankets

Instructions

1. Choose a dog crate that is big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around but not so large that he can walk from one end to the other. He should be able to stretch out comfortably with a few inches to spare on each side. The "Maran Illustrated Dog Training" book advises that a small crate creates a feeling of security for the dog.

2. Furnish the crate with soft bedding and a stuffed animal, especially if your dog is new to the family. A new dog may feel anxious when left alone for the night and he may whimper or bark. A stuffed animal may provide comfort.

3. Get your dog used to longer periods in his crate gradually. During the house-training period, leave the crate open in a restricted area, such as a small bathroom, and cover the floors with newspapers. When your puppy is housebroken, increase his time in a closed crate. (See Resources)

4. Feed your at least dog two hours before bedtime and walk him just before you put him to bed. A hungry dog may whine through the night and wake early. Walking him just before bedtime is essential to allow him to use the bathroom before retiring for the night.

5. Open the crate door when your dog is quiet. If you open it when he is barking, he will relate barking to the door being opened. Distract him, if needed, with a treat, and when he is silent, open the door. Praise your dog when you come into the room and he is silent in his crate.

6. Cover your dog's crate at night if lights or other objects excite him or send him into a barking frenzy.

Tips & Warnings

• Take off your dog's collar before putting him unsupervised in his crate overnight.

• Never use your dog's crate as a punishment. If you do, he may not feel comfortable and secure in it and he may not sleep well. Puppies may not sleep through the night until they are 6 months or older. An elderly dog may develop sleeping problems and should be examined by a veterinarian to rule out an underlying disorder.

References

• Maran Illustrated Dog Training, Thomson Course Technology, 2004-2005

Resources

• Use your dog's crate for housetraining.